In a nitrogen poor environment, this could provide an advantage to an infested plant over a noninfested plant.

Of particular interest to the scientists, an infested plant appears to recognize the value of the parasitic wasps that will kill its enemy.

Destroy heavily infested plants, and don't compost them.

Heavily infested plants have shortened internodes leading to resetting or a "bunchy top" appearance.

Spray badly infested plants with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.

The roots of infested plants develop a tangle of branches and swellings which are white when young but turn dark brown with age.

It is a good idea to isolate badly infested plants so the pests do not fly off to lay their eggs on adjacent greenery.

Also, if the infested plant can tolerate the cold, place the plant on a windowsill during cold weather.

Disinfecting the tools is also important when working with infested plants and should be performed every time the gardener moves to another area of the garden.

The weevil spreads mainly by "hitchhiking" when infested plants, soil, and containers are moved from site to site.